Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Charles Trueman Lanham (ASN: 0-15568), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of the 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against enemy forces on 14 September 1944, in Germany. As the assault elements of his command charged strong enemy fortified positions, Colonel Lanham, observing the action from a forward position, saw the attack falter and halt under a fierce artillery barrage. Passing through the withering fire, he advanced courageously to the battered troops to assume personal command. Moving out in front of his men, Colonel Lanham proceeded forward fearlessly in the face of heavy enemy fire. Inspired by this display of valor, the men vigorously stormed the enemy position. Colonel Lanham’s inspiring leadership, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, the 4th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    22d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    4th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 77 (1944)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Charles Trueman Lanham (ASN: 0-15568), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations, in 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Lanham, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Colonel (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    22d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    4th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 49 (1944)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Charles Trueman Lanham (ASN: 0-15568), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 22d Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the European Theater of Operations, in 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Lanham, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.